Equality & Diversity Groups

The SSA over time will be developing a list of organisations whose focus is primarily on equality and diversity issues. Although they may not all be obvious places to look for new board members, we hope that by creating this list we will be able to support our members link up with underrepresented members of society to help bolster the diversity of the organisation.

The list will change on a regular basis and we hope it will grow to include an incredibly varied mixture of groups. If you would like your organisation to appear on our website please contact admin@thessa.org.uk

BEMISWebsite:www.bemis.org.ukContact: mail@diwc.co.ukAbout: BEMIS is the national umbrella body supporting the development of the Ethnic Minorities Voluntary Sector in Scotland. BEMIS was established in 2001 to promote the interest of minority ethnic voluntary organisations, develop capacity and support inclusion and integration of ethnic minorities communities. It is a member-led and managed organisation with an elected board of directors.

Coalition for Racial Equality and RightsWebsite:www.crer.scotContact: mail@crer.org.ukAbout: We are focused on working to eliminate racial discrimination and harassment and promote racial justice across Scotland.

Dundee International Women's CentreWebsite:www.diwc.co.ukContact: mail@diwc.co.ukAbout: DIWC provides educational, recreational, informal and social activities as well as employment training, information and advice services for disadvantaged and or/excluded women.

Edinburgh Women's AidWebsite:www.edinwomensaid.co.ukContact: info@edinwomensaid.co.ukAbout: We work towards a society that's free from abuse. We aim to raise awareness of domestic violence, and give practical and emotional support to women who are suffering in abusive situations.

Glasgow Women's LibraryWebsite:www.womenslibrary.org.ukContact: info@womenslibrary.org.ukAbout: Glasgow Women’s Library is the only Accredited Museum in the UK dedicated to women’s lives, histories and achievements, with a lending library, archive collections and innovative programmes of public events & learning opportunities.

HIV ScotlandWebsite:www.hivscotland.comContact: Via WebsiteAbout: HIV Scotland is the national HIV policy organisation for Scotland. We exist on behalf of all those living with and at risk of HIV to ensure that Scotland has responsive policies, quality services and a supportive environment that enable people living with or at risk of HIV in Scotland to live healthy and fulfilling lives.

LGBT Youth ScotlandWebsite:www.lgbtyouth.org.ukContact: info@lgbtyouth.org.ukAbout: LGBT Youth Scotland is the largest youth and community-based organisation for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in Scotland. The charity's mission is to: “empower lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender young people and the wider LGBT community so that they are embraced as full members of the Scottish family at home, school and in every community.”

LEAP SportWebsite:www.leapsports.orgContact: info@leapsports.orgAbout: LEAP Sports Scotland (Leadership, Equality and Active Participation in Sports for LGBTI people in Scotland) works for greater inclusion for LGBTI people in sport and against homophobia, biphobia and transphobia in a sports context. We are committed to breaking down the structural, social and personal barriers which prevent lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people across the country from accessing, participating and excelling in Scottish sports.

Midlothian People's Equality GroupWebsite:www.midequalitygroup.co.ukContact: Via WebsiteAbout: Friendly group of local people who have experience of and aim to learn about and challenge different forms of discrimination related to age, disability, gender, sexuality, ethnicity and socio-economic background.

PATH (Scotland)About:www.pathscotland.org.ukContact: info@pathscotland.org.ukAbout: We aim to develop the professional and technical skills in housing and other public sector services of individuals who may suffer disadvantage because of colour, race, nationality or ethnic origin.

Scottish Refugee CouncilWebsite:www.scottishrefugeecouncil.org.ukContact: info@scottishrefugeecouncil.org.ukAbout: We’re here to provide essential information and advice to people seeking asylum and refugees in Scotland where we can. We also campaign for political change, raise awareness about issues that affect refugees; and we work closely with local communities and organisations.

Stonewall ScotlandWebsite:www.stonewallscotland.org.ukContact: info@stonewallscotland.org.ukAbout: We're here to let all lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people, here and abroad, know they're not alone. We believe we're stronger united, so we partner with organisations that help us create real change for the better. We have laid deep foundations across Britain - in some of our greatest institutions - so our communities can continue to find ways to flourish, and individuals can reach their full potential. We’re here to support those who can’t yet be themselves.

Women's Aid South Lanarkshire (& East Renfrewshire)Website:www.wasl.org.ukContact: info@wasler.org.ukAbout: We aim to support and empower women, children and young people who are experiencing, or have experienced domestic abuse.

YWCAWebsite:www.ywcascotland.orgContact: hello@ywcascotland.orgAbout: YWCA Scotland is a feminist organisation and part of a worldwide movement of women leading change. Our vision is a world where every woman can shape her own life journey and fulfil her potential, where the voices of women are heard, respected and celebrated.